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4 comments about Ordinary Joy: Finding Fresh Promise in Routine Moments.

1. How often have humans found that the wanting or desire for something has often eclipsed actually attaining that item. In Pastor Joe Campeau's book, Ordinary Joy, Finding Fresh Promise in Routine Moments, the author writes, "The key to ordinary joy is finding it in the journey, not simply upon arrival". In reading this book one begins to find the joy of discovering that we can find joy in our daily lives.
   
   From the beginning of the book he stresses that we often fail to see the presence of Jesus and his joy. He writes, "In a world of budgets, megabyte computers, and humming technology, our imaginations become infertile, and we often fail to recognize grace". From the beginning of the book to the end, Pastor Campeau reaffirms God's love for us and His unconditional acceptance Campeau writes, "God's invitation to you is come as you are, not as you aren't." In reading Pastor Campeau's book I found such a sense of release and freedom that I am loved by God as I am-not as I think I should appear to others. Campeau again writes, "God is not pleased with you because you are remarkable; you are remarkable because God is pleased with you." One has only to look this far to realize that the joy of life is that we are loved and accepted by God.
   
   Pastor Joe helps bring his writing to life as he weaves stories of his family, friends, parishioners, and examples from the Bible onto the pages. These examples of ordinary people help one connect to the points that the author is making.
   
   In the hectic life that many of us lead this book is a refreshing reminder that God is all around us and that we only need stop and begin to recognize the joy of Jesus in our lives. Pastor Campeau finishes with an excellent statement of fact that leaves the reader knowing that we are loved. "We have an extraordinary Savior. He inhabits the most common moments of life and delights in everyday discipleship, for he rejoices in the ordinary. He rejoices in me, in you. There is no better reason for joy."



2. Ordinary Joy reminds you that God is in fact all around you in your ordinary living if you just take a break from all the hustle and bustle and truly appreciate His beauty. Joe Campeau uses personal illustrations that we can relate to, and in turn, relates them to the teachings of Jesus. On a personal note, my own faith has waivered for quite some time that after taking a "closer look," I am rediscovering God's presence in my life and I know that, no matter what, "the sun will shine tomorrow and I will be kissed by Son again and again and it can never be wiped away." Peace and JOY!



3. Prior to my reading Ordinary Joy, had Jesus Christ walked right up to me, I most cetainly would have missed Him. Now there is a chance that I will recognize Him every day for the rest of my life. This read has truly made me feel loved by God.



4. Look closer. If you want to see beauty, learn to view ordinary things in a new way, Campeau says. The author is currently a senior pastor of the fast-growing Christ Lutheran Church in Santa Clarita, California.
   
   Campeau says in his introduction that the first key is finding uncommon joy at the center of common life--and that God is in the middle of it. The second key is to recognize the ways in which the simplest areas of life can also be the most profound areas for serving God.
   
   If you read nothing but the questions at the end of each chapter--and give serious thought to the answer, you will be way ahead of things. But let's talk about the content leading up to those outstanding questions. My favorite is in the chapter, "Sometimes the giver is the gift." If you have received a gift without knowing who gave it, how did you feel about receiving it?
   
   The sections are: 1: Discover God on Ordinary Days and 2: Serving God in Ordinary Ways.
   
   In the chapter on being needed, the author states that sometimes we need a break from being needed; when the pressures build, the sacrifice too exhausting, the times we want to run away and hide. Then you ponder: "I wonder if God needs me?" God has chosen to need you and me.
   
   Armchair Interviews says: This book would be a great tool for discussion by a church group because of the thought-provoking content and soul-searching questions.

No comments about Closing the Iron Cage: The Scientific Management of Work and Leisure.

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4 comments about What's A Girl To Do In A Big City If She Can't Dance?: A Seriously Humorous Look At The 7 Crossroads In Women's Lives.

1. Taylor Sparks is a unique author who has the ability to hit you straight in the head and in the heart. This book conveys life's challenges and helps you understand that trouble, worry and anxiety can be put behind you. I would recommend this book to all women, young and old, who just need a gentle push in life.



2. This is a great book for all women but it came at an especially opportune time in my life when I needed a helpful reminder of things I had forgotten all about since having and raising a child. This book has taught me how important it is to stop, breathe, and take a moment for yourself everyday because if you don't take care of you, who will? I am so grateful for Taylor Sparks sharing her life with me in a comical, totally hilarious way that had me laughing out loud on the plane where I read this book on my way to the Dominican Republic to Taylor's tropical retreat for women only. A must read for women who are stressed out and overwhelmed with life.
   
   -SW, Raleigh, NC



3. This book had great information for women but was very limited in context.



4. Women everywhere have problems with their self-esteem and loving themselves. Fortunately, there will never be enough self-help or empowerment books. If you're looking for this type of book, you won't be disappointed in WHAT'S A GIRL TO DO IN A BIG CITY IF SHE CAN'T DANCE? by Taylor K. Sparks. Not only is the title an eye catcher, it's a good lead-in for Sparks as she tells us sisters that we do have some issues, whether we choose to deny or ignore them.
   
   A good example for understanding this book is to compare it to driving on an interstate and paying at various toll booths as you travel towards your destination. Every stop is necessary, but you have to slow down until you reach the toll booth, pay, and then you move to the next one. The book and its teachings are similar. Sparks details the reasons we are in situations which cause turmoil with our feelings and self-esteem, how we should acknowledge them, and then move on. She explains how we should take a good look at our whole body and not just the chest up or the waist down, but the entire body, and appreciate it. We need to also take time for self and become courageous. We have the strength and survival skills, we just don't know how to tap into them. Basically, we're smart in some areas, yet clueless in others.
   
   WHAT'S A GIRL TO DO IN A BIG CITY IF SHE CAN'T DANCE? is a well-written, must-read book for women wanting to improve their lifestyle. I liked Sparks' simple outline and her humorous take on situations, the problems noted and ways to address them. Realistically, we will always be stopping at a toll booth to redefine ourselves, but if we travel at a decent speed, with caution and a positive attitude, those toll booths will just be something in passing.
   
   Reviewed by Kalaani
   of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

3 comments about Marianne Williamson On Meditation and Prayer.

1. This is an excellent tape, well worth the money. If you are having any conflict in your life, or if you are seeking new ways of looking at the way you live your life, then this tape is for you.

   Marianne discusses prayer and mediation and references her studies of "A Course in Miracles." She gives concrete examples on what does and does not work in her spirtual world. The tape also features guided meditation/prayers that can be life changing, if you are ready to change. The topics discussed are compatible with any religion.

   It has changed my life for the better.




2. Has your day ever started off real well, you wake up early, get in your meditation time, maybe some exercise, eat something healthy, take a relaxing shower, walk out the door with a smile and five minutes later your in a rage and screaming at people who can't even hear you? I did this every day. It made me feel psychotic. I spend all that time in the morning with God only to have it go right out the window in traffic. Then, of course, my work day was stressful and I was in a bad mood, making my co-workers nuts. Then I started listening to Marianne Williamson's lecture tapes on the way to work. Not only do they help me with a clearer understanding of "A Course in Miracles", and spirituality in general. Not only does Marianne Williamson tie spiritual principle into everyday life in a way that most of us can relate too, but she makes me laugh, with her and sometimes at myself. Not only is my day more productive and better for myself and my co-workers, but it helps me to not lose the connection I made in meditation that allows me to not see myself and others as guilty. Yes, even when that non-driver cuts me off in traffic almost killing both of us.

   Mediation and prayer has two excellent lectures about "A Course in Miracles" definitions of meditation and prayer along with that logical explaination some of us who are too intelligent for our own good need. Love ya Marianne Phoenix




3. Marrianne Williamson's work is both real and honest. Rather than couch things in a concepts that are alien or extremely religious, she talks to you about the realities of existing. Of how things will not always be easy, about how you will lose your way, and honestly how to see people clearly. Growth is messy, it's not neat, maturity is not easy, nor is spirtiuality delicate work, but with assistance from a tape like this you can see yourself clearly and how to bridge yourself from concept to human to spiritual being.

1 comments about Smart Guide to Relieving Stress.

1. There are many books on the market regarding stress. However, by the time a person has gotten through many of them, his or her stress level has risen as many are unorganized and generally off the mark.

   Carole Bodger has written a book that avoids those pitfalls. Smart Guide to Relieving stress is an easy-to-read, well-organized book, well-documented book. Rather than pretending to be the expert, Ms. Bodger goes to the experts to get the best advice available for relieving stress. Yet, as she writes, everything is brought to the layman's level. A dictionary is not need to understand what is being said.

   This book is not only informational; it is practical, too. Techniques are offered for stress reduction. Many are common sense. One stress reducer that is offered is exercise. Other techniques are less familiar. Ms. Bodger talks about choosing colors carefully to enhance well-being.

   This is not a book to be read cover to cover. Instead, it is a book to keep close at hand so that you may refer to it time and time again.

No comments about Learn How to Relax (CD edition).